With the beginning of the summer season approaching, controls on routes will intensify. To guarantee compliance with the National Traffic Law (Law 24,449).
It is not always clear what documentation is mandatory, what elements of security must be present in the vehicle and what the limits of the officers are.
When detained in a traffic controlagents are empowered to request documents proving the legality of the vehicle and the suitability of the driver. As stipulated in current regulations, it is essential to have:
Mandatory documentation:
- Valid driver’s license according to the type of vehicle.
- DNI to identify the driver.
- Green ID card (or valid blue ID card authorized by the holder if the holder does not have the green ID card).
- Mandatory insurance: the policy must be up to date and it is necessary to have physical or digital proof certifying coverage.
- Vehicle Technical Verification (VTV): this mechanical and environmental control is mandatory in all provinces, although the requirements vary by jurisdiction.
“The lack of any of these documents may result in fines, retention of the vehicle or the inability to continue the trip. For this reason, it is recommended to previously verify that all documentation is current,” explained Samuel Meneses, from Segurarse, the digital insurance broker that developed a guide to answer the most frequent questions that drivers have regarding this type of operations.
In addition to the documents, the National Traffic Law requires that Vehicles have certain essential elements to guarantee safety in case of emergencies or mechanical breakdowns.
Mandatory safety elements:
- Fire extinguisher with updated load control: it must be within reach of the driver and in optimal condition.
- Portable beacons: mandatory to signal the car in stop situations on the route.
Although they are not required by law, it is recommended to bring:
- Reflective vest: improves driver visibility in emergency situations.
- First aid kit: useful in case of minor accidents.
- Spare wheel in good condition and basic tools such as a hydraulic jack or jack and an adjustment wrench.
“Not having a fire extinguisher or beacons is considered as serious as driving without a license or insurance, so it is important to include these elements in any pre-trip check,” says Meneses.
Rights and limits
It is essential to know your rights as a driver to avoid situations of abuse of authority. According to road safety specialists, traffic agents are not authorized to carry out certain actions that violate the rights of citizens. For example:
They cannot request bribes or gifts: any attempt at corruption must be reported.
They cannot inspect the interior of the vehicle without authorization: since it is private property, this action can only be carried out in the presence of witnesses and with well-founded reasons. If during a check it is presumed that there may be something suspicious inside the vehicle, the police must be summoned and the inspection justified in front of two witnesses.
They cannot withhold documentation without reason: documents can only be withheld in specific cases, such as lack of driving license.
In the event that a driver faces an irregular situation, it is key to remain calm, document what happened and file a formal complaint with the corresponding authorities.
Alcoholemia
One of the most controlled aspects of traffic operations is the alcohol consumption while driving. According to the Traffic Law, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited throughout the national territory. In several provinces, such as Córdoba, Salta, Buenos Aires, Jujuy and Tucumán, among others, zero tolerance applies. This means that any blood alcohol level will be penalized.
“In the event of a positive result in the breathalyzer test, the agent will proceed to file an infraction, detain the vehicle and notify the driver. Depending on the severity, the sanctions can include financial fines, temporary disqualification from driving and, in extreme cases, judicial penalties,” indicates the broker’s executive.
Officers also verify that the number of occupants in the vehicle does not exceed the number of seat belts available. This rule seeks to ensure that all passengers travel safely. Exceeding the permitted limit constitutes an infraction, with the corresponding sanctions.
In addition, failure to use a seat belt, both by the driver and passengers, is another frequent reason for penalties. This measure, in addition to being mandatory, is one of the most effective resources to reduce the severity of injuries in the event of accidents. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all occupants use it correctly throughout the journey.
Mandatory Technical Review (RTO)
The Mandatory Technical Check (RTO) is a mechanical control that evaluates the safety conditions of the vehicle and measures its pollution levels. Unlike the Vehicle Technical Verification (VTV), the RTO is mandatory for vehicles of certain categories, including:
- Category L: motorcycles and tricycles.
- Category M: automobiles for passenger transportation.
- Category N: vehicles intended for cargo transportation.
- Category O: trailers and semi-trailers.
Failure to comply with this inspection may result in fines and driving bans.
“To avoid inconveniences at traffic controls, it is advisable to carry out a complete inspection before leaving on a trip. Verifying the documentation, ensuring that the elements of the safety kit are in order and respecting traffic regulations are essential steps to enjoy a safe vacation,” the specialist pointed out.
“In addition, it is important to know the specific laws and regulations of each province, since some jurisdictions have additional requirements, such as special permits or circulation restrictions by zones,” concluded Menese.
Source: Ambito
